InFocus - Year In Review 2007-2008

SPRING 2008

Year in Review 2007-2008

MLC In Focus is published by Martin Luther College Public Relations Office and is distributed free of charge to students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends. Owned and operated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), Martin Luther College trains both men and women to serve as teachers and staff ministers in WELS and also prepares men for pastoral training at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon WI. President Mark Zarling VP, Mission Advancement Jon Scharlemann Public Relations Director Bill Pekrul Editor/Writer Laurie Gauger Photographer Bill Pekrul

All correspondence should be directed to MLC In Focus Martin Luther College 1995 Luther Court • New Ulm, MN 56073 mlcinfo@mlc-wels.edu • 507-354-8221 ext. 295

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Jesus First

By MLC President Mark Zarling

It wasn’t a big sign, but it carried a big meaning.

Above the door to her Lutheran elementary school classroom, a WELS teacher posted a placard that simply said, “Jesus first.” That sign shouted a daily reminder to her, the students, and the parents that Jesus is what that classroom was all about.

“Jesus first” was the obvious reality in every lesson she taught and every playground game she refereed.

Lord, don’t let me get in the way!

It wasn’t a big sign, but it carried a big meaning. On the pulpit bookstand of a WELS church, the pastor had placed a small card with the passage Sir, we would see Jesus. A small sign but another powerful reminder that “Jesus first” needs to be the obvious reality in every sermon he proclaimed and every devotion he gave. Lord, don’t let me get in the way!

“Jesus first” needs to be the obvious reality and the pervasive priority of every aspect of life at MLC. Why? Only in Jesus can mortal humans come to know the holy God. Scripture declares, No one has ever seen God, but God the only Son, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known. Jesus has come through Word and sacrament to bring us to God. Jesus is called the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, reminding us of his powerful conquest over

sin and death. Jesus is called the first and the last to remind us that he is the eternal Lord God, who transcends time and space and governs all things for the good of his people. The Spirit of Christ has been poured out through the Word to remind us that Jesus is the object of our First-Commandment praise. No other way exists, for no one comes to the Father except through me, Christ declared.

So the Spirit, through this glorious “Jesus first” gospel, creates the first resurrection in human hearts, raising new life from the deadness of the natural heart. And that new life of faith excites and motivates God’s people to seek new avenues of praise and service to Christ’s glory.

In this Summer 2008 issue of MLC InFocus, which examines a year of “firsts” at MLC, pause to ponder how the reality of “Jesus first” demonstrates itself in a sanctified life always striving to do it all for the glory of God.

You could say that we’ve been waiting for this for 125 years. For Christ’s goodness to us at this place, we offer our praise and thanks as we ponder so many new gifts of his grace. In everything we do, may we see “Jesus first.”

Welcome to the special Summer 2008 issue of MLC InFocus. I want to thank the many MLC students who contributed photos, as well as Alumni Director Steve Balza and the students who spent a considerable amount of time scanning a random selection of DMLC, NWC, and MLC graduate photos from ’33, ’38, ’43, ’48, ’53, ’58, ‘63, ’68, ’73, ’78, ’83, ’88, ’93, ‘98, and ’03. All members of these classes will be our special guests at the First Annual Alumni Reunion in July. See page 22. And a special thank you to Bill Pekrul, Director of Public Relations, for his generous supply of fantastic photos. The magazine wouldn’t be the same without them.

Laurie Gauger, MLC InFocus Writer/Editor

Beth Schuppe DMLC ’83 Memphis TN

Arthur Meier DMLC ’33 Ormsby MN

Mark Kaesmeyer NWC ’93 Saginaw MI

Destinee Jaeger MLC ’08 Two Rivers WI

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About 50 MLC Knights are serving around the world through Daylight International. They teach all levels and all subjects. They work with missionaries. They make a difference— globally.

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Kurt Wittmershaus DMLC ’88 Bangor WI

Dan Heiderich NWC ’93, Manitowoc WI

Roland Hoefer DMLC ’38 Kenosha WI

Mike Geiger NWC ’93, Belmont CA

A Chapel at MLC May 14, 2008, marked an important first for MLC, as we broke ground for the Martin Luther College chapel. A chapel, the first in the 125-year history of this campus, will afford us a dedicated worship space that glorifies our Savior and highlights Word and sacrament through architecture and the arts.

Focus: The chapel will center on Christ himself, in spirit as well as in structure. A baptismal font in the entrance will remind us that it is by baptism that we enter the Church of God. An altar and the suspended crucifix of Christ will remind us of the sacrifice of our Lord as payment for the sins of the world. An ambo (pulpit/lectern) will be the proclamation point of the written and spoken Word. And a triptych, or three-paneled work of art, above the altar will

Form and Function: The interior of the chapel will be octagon-shaped, the number 8 being a symbol of Christ’s resurrection and of eternity. The nave will seat 1000, plus additional choir and overflow seating. Chairs, instead of pews, will allow for greater flexibility. A large gathering space outside the nave will be available for fellowship and reflection.

Past and Present: In keeping with the historical Lutheran emphasis on music, the design includes a new organ, superior acoustics, and ample, flexible space for choirs and instrumentalists. In keeping with the technological progress of the times, space will be provided for audio-visual control and unobtrusive projection screens.

Youcould couldsay saythat thatwe’ve we’vebeen beenwaiting waiting You forthis thisfor for125 125years. years. for present the Word to the congregants in visual form.

In addition, the chapel building itself will be a focal point on our campus, a powerful statement about our purpose: preparing public ministers of the gospel.

We’re grateful to the continuing work of the Chapel Building Committee: Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer, Dr. Mark Lenz, Professor Keith Wessel, Professor John Boeder, Dr. Wayne Wagner, Professor Jonathan Balge, Mr. Gary Sonnenberg, and President Mark Zarling (advisory).

Rebecca Finke MLC ’08 East Brunswick NJ

Daniel Witte NWC ’88 Streamwood IL

Gifts of Grace: For over 10 years, donors have been demonstrating their gratitude for God’s grace by giving gifts specifically for a Martin Luther College chapel. We want to keep trust with those donors by using their gifts as they intended—creating a beautiful space in which future called workers can grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, participate in worship with the fullness of their musical and creative gifts, and, through the power of the Spirit, be ever more motivated in their ministerial training.

Alice Konetchy DMLC ’43 La Crosse WI

Glenn Rosenbaum NWC ’88 Saginaw MI

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Arnold Tiefel NWC ’38 Stambaugh MI

Richard Poetter DMLC ’43 Fond du Lac WI

Angela Hieb MLC ’03 Tsuchiura City, Japan

Brandon Aswege MLC ’08 Mesa AZ

The Gospel in Song and Deed It was a first for the Martin Luther College Choir, directed by Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer: singing at three Lutheran churches in Mexico: El Redentor (Torreón), La Santa Cruz (Monterrey), and Divina Gracia (Zaragosa Sur). We could use the words edification and entertainment to define their beautiful concerts, but a more accurate word would be evangelism.

As the choir sang in both English and Spanish, Christians and nonChristians alike heard the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Moldenhauer noted that at the concert at El Redentor, almost 360 people crammed into the 60-member church, filling the church basement and, when that was full, sitting on chairs outside, peering in through the large open windows. Pastor Esequiel Elíu Sánchez reported the following Sunday that 20 new visitors attended services and 50 prospects

“People gathered in the tent-like, cement-walled church. Pastor Hartman conducted a small service.

We had the confession of sins, absolution, prayers, and they joined their hearts with ours when we sang.

“I studied the faces of these people. Their environment, their way of life, their families, their country—all were different than mine. Yet a child is a child wherever you go. I gave a little girl a coloring book, crayons, and stickers. Some of the other children got t-shirts, balls, and dolls. I never thought I would be showing children how to play with a Slinky!

“In this small act of play I realized that God has given us the gracious gift of unity through his Son Jesus Christ—a unity that leads us to love

You could say that we’ve been waiting Why singfor in 125 Mexico? for this years.Because the gospel knows no boundaries. were identified. “The Holy Spirit began his work through the proclamation of the gospel in song!”

Moldenhauer said. “Praise God for this opportunity.”

Junior Caralyn Schmeling (Faith—River Falls WI) says that the concert the day before, at the barren desert mission called Divina Gracia, was stirring in another way: “We arrived outside a shanty town called Zaragosa Sur. The grass I was used to was replaced by jagged rocks and cement. The trees I knew disappeared. The homes were about a quarter the size of most American middle-class garages.

Jonathan Bare MLC ’03 Owosso MI

Amy Moldenhauer MLC ’98 New Ulm MN

each other as Christ loves us, a unity that brought us to this place to serve. We held God’s Word with trembling hands that day, and God allowed us to give him glory and proclaim his message.”

Next year, the Martin Luther College Choir will tour the Midwest.

Todd Goldschmidt NWC ’83 Sitka AK

Wilbert Luehring DMLC ’48 Nicollet MN

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About 50 MLC Knights are serving around the world through Daylight International. They teach all levels and all subjects. They work with missionaries. They make a difference— globally.

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Allen Ash DMLC ’93 Manitowoc WI

Jonathan R Balge NWC ’83 Mequon WI

Walter Sievert DMLC ’48 Mobridge SD

Mark Rieke NWC ’78 Tomah WI

A Degree Above Two MLC graduates graduated again this May—this time with an MLC Master of Science in Education degree.

professors were excellent. They are very dedicated, extremely knowledgeable, and they put forth tremendous effort throughout.”

Aaron Hartwig ’02 (St. John—Hemlock MI) was the first to sign up for MLC’s master’s program.

He wanted to keep pace with the latest education research, methodology, and technology applications.

And, more important, he wanted to sit at the feet of qualified professors who have a markedly Lutheran worldview and an understanding of the specific needs of WELS schools.

MLC’s program is designed specifically for teachers in WELS schools, not only in content but in format as well. It’s an online program, with just one week of MLC residency required, making it doable for teachers who are already booked with school, church, and family responsibilities. Most master’s students do their online coursework between 8 and midnight.

“The profs are outstanding,” he says. “It’s wonderful that they all have taught in the levels we’re at.

“These graduates are demonstrating their commitment to lifelong

It may have passed without much pomp and circumstance, but it’s a landmark Youincould sayhistory. that we’ve been waiting event MLC’s for this for 125 years.

They’ve been there. They’ve seen it. They’ve done it.

It’s a privilege to learn from them.”

He cites one of Dr. Cindy Whaley’s courses especially: “It was very informative, very applicable to the teaching ministry. I’ve learned an awful lot about keeping a balance in what I do—trying to educate the whole child, not just teaching them to do well on the test but also to do well in life.”

Brett Kriese ‘95 (Pilgrim—Menomonee Falls WI) was the first student to finish the program, and like others he enjoyed both the theory and the instant applicability, as things he learned in the evening in an online course found their way into his classroom the next day. “I found a great deal of the course work applicable to my daily teaching,” he says. “And the

Helen Groth DMLC ’53 Wauwatosa WI

Nathan Radtke NWC ’78 Merritt Island FL

learning,” said Vice President Dave Wendler. “Our Lutheran schools need educators who serve their students with excellence in teaching. Continual study of both Scripture and pedagogy is a postbaccalaureate goal for all education majors.”

MLC’s Master of Science program has a current enrollment of 50+ students.

Grace Hilleman DMLC ’53 Savanna IL

Jeff Gunn NWC ’78 Phoenix

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Edward Fredrich NWC ’38 Helenville WI

Harold Runke DMLC ’53 Hutchinson MN

Richard Gensmer NWC ’33 Lewiston MN

Eulora Kehl DMLC ’58 Neenah WI

Life and Science— Education on the Edge We affectionately call them “The Bio Boys.” Dr. Roger Klockziem and Professor Rich Ash have been teamteaching Biology: Our Living World to every student at MLC since 1999. In the 21st century, science— full of sensitive issues and touchy topics—can be a difficult subject to teach. But the Bio Boys are not afraid to tackle it.

It begins with a specific worldview: Biology at MLC starts and ends with a Creator God who designed every life system in the universe, from the simplest cell to the complex interrelation of the whole

“The course stresses the role that science plays in the life of a Christian,” says Ash. “Science is a tool that allows us to try to understand God’s creation, realizing that scientific knowledge is subject to change and that the only source of truth is the Word.”

Ash and Klockziem not only recognize how science fits into every Christian’s life, they also grasp how imperative scientific understanding is specifically for future pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. Our students need to be fully aware of 21st-century ethical

What do you get when you add theology to biology? Science at Martin Luther College.

You could say that we’vequestions been waiting and moral dilemmas in the scientific The people they serve may be looking to for this for 125 years. sphere. them for answers.

biosphere. “We can look at, say, the mysteries of the human body,” says Klockziem, “and we can freely say, ‘This is the hand of God.’ The content of biology may be lost from my students’ short-term memories, but what will last is awe and reverence for our Creator, Preserver, and Saving God.” That worldview results in courage to wrestle with bioethical behemoths like genetics and reproductive technologies. Students are required to research and articulate a position in case studies involving frozen embryos, organ transplants, mental imbalances, diseases, drug dependencies, bulimia, abortion, and euthanasia.

The heart of MLC’s educational paradigm is public ministry. Our courses are keyed to the needs of the church, and professors like Ash and Klockziem have years of ministry experience to share.

Steven Korth NWC ’73 Juneau WI

Virgene Kiecker DMLC ’58 Fairfax MN

Relevant and substantial course content . . . multi-faceted answers to questions . . . critical thinking . . . hands-on learning—these are some of the ingredients in a recipe for great teaching.

Add a dash of humor and a full measure of concern for students, and you’ve got a biology class so meaningful, practical, and fun, the students themselves may not realize how much they’re learning.

In fact, if we put Biology: Our Living World under the microscope, we may find that it epitomizes liberal arts education on this campus.

Mark Cares NWC ’73 Monroe MI

Daniel Kirk DMLC ’58 Owasso MI

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Sandra Carter DMLC ’93 East Jordan MI

James Phillips NWC ’68 Hokah MN

Armin Panning NWC ’53 Gibbon MN

John Guse NWC ’68 Watertown WI

A Year in Malawi MUNDILENGERE MTIMA WOYERA MULUNGU. “Create in Me” has always been my favorite part of our liturgy. It’s also my new favorite part of the Chichewa service. Different words, different beautiful melody, but the same meaning. “Restore unto me the joy of your salvation.”

So writes Rachel Kionka ’07, the first MLC graduate to teach at Sir Harry Johnston International School in Zomba, Malawi, through MLC’s Daylight International. In Rachel’s blog she records her adventures: (August 5, 2007) This morning I went to my first services at my new church, Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Zomba, Malawi. Such beautiful singing.

When Pastor Liwonde introduced me he said, “We are your brothers and sisters, and we are here if

to see. She just found out that her one-month-old baby boy was positive for HIV as well.

But the clear tone of Rachel’s blog—and of her life this year—is good news, THE good news . . . in Chichewa, in English, in the words and songs and faces of Malawi.

(October 22) Yesterday I was able to go to two village congregations with Rob Wendland. Before you even open the truck door the Malawians gather around, singing and dancing, smiling and clapping.

I love it all. Watching Rob baptize five little ones at each service, I could tell how much he loves it too.

(March 29, 2008) My Easter was spent in Blantyre. The youth group did a skit of Easter morning at the tomb . . . the soldiers marching

The ministry is changing as You face couldofsay that we’ve been waiting MLC graduates teach all over the world. for this for 125 years. you need help.” How amazing that we will all be in heaven together. To me, their singing is a taste of it.

Rachel’s account is full of the beauty of Africa, but she can’t fail to notice fatal flaws in the landscape: malaria, HIV/AIDS, boys with machetes, young girls with babies, and children with no parents at all.

(August 8) This afternoon I went to teach the orphan children at Grace. It was really neat, but sad too. One of the boys had malaria, but he was still there.

(November 5) On Monday afternoon I went out into the field with Miriam. She is a nurse working with an HIV/AIDS program. The last patient was the hardest

Ellen Albrecht DMLC ’63 Mequon WI

Marcus Birkholz NWC ’68 Mankato MN

in to guard the tomb with “weapons” that included a big plastic rake, the soldiers falling over at the “earthquake” (a dissonant chord played on the piano), and the chitengis that everyone was draped in as clothing, “viewing” the empty tomb, and the passage the group recited at the end: “I know that my Redeemer lives!”

About 50 MLC students and grads are teaching overseas through MLC’s Daylight International. To read more about Rachel’s ministry, go to rachelinafrica.blog.com.

Werner Lemke DMLC ’63 Fairfax MN

Verne Voss NWC ’63 Fond du Lac WI

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About 50 MLC Knights are serving around the world through Daylight International. They teach all levels and all subjects. They work with missionaries. They make a difference— globally.

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Peter Zaferos MLC ’08 Watertown WI

George Rausch DMLC ’63 Rawson OH

William Russow NWC ’63 Woodland CA

Eunice Schulz DMLC ’63 Oak Creek WI

Your Next Pastor?

John Raasch ’09 (Bethel—Sioux Falls SD) has several years of training to go, but he’s already got more experience than you might expect.

Like his Pre-Seminary classmates at MLC, John is learning Greek, Hebrew, Bible history, doctrine, and a wide array of liberal arts—“classes that teach you how to think,” he says. But it’s really the profs who make the difference: “Learning how the professors live their ministries and their lives is the best lesson.”

Outside the classroom is where John is really ratcheting up his training. With the help of WELS

don’t have the power. I just plant the seed, and the promise is that it won’t return empty.”

This summer John’s training continues. He’ll do Spanish immersion in Ecuador, and then he’ll work as a summer vicar in the Hispanic community of south-central Minnesota, again funded by WELS Kingdom Workers.

It’ll be a few years before he’s assigned to some fortunate congregation’s pulpit. But he’s looking forward to it. “I want to be a good pastor, a faithful pastor,” he says. “Whether it’s in Mexico, inner city

In six years, John Raasch may become your next pastor. What will he be like?

You could say that we’veMilwaukee, beenSouthwaiting Dakota, or wherever, I want to use what I’ve learned here to the best of my ability— for this for 125 years. writing good sermons, shepherding my sheep, living

Kingdom Workers, John spent the 2006-2007 school year in Mexico, six months at La Santa Cruz Lutheran church in Monterrey with MLC grad Silas Schmitzer ’06 (Trinity—Jenera OH), and six months at Cordero de Dios, a new mission in Pachuca, with MLC student Mike Schneider (St. Mark—Salina KS).

In both Monterrey and Pachuca, he and his partner offered Ingles Gratis, free English lessons. After several weeks, they began offering Bible studies after English class. “It was ‘Stay if you like,’” John says.

Most stayed.

“Bible study was consistently the highlight of my week,” he says. “It was exciting to teach someone the Bible when they don’t know much of anything about it. ‘This is what the Bible says,’ I’d say. And they’d never seen it.

a life above reproach.

“And I’ll know that it’s not me that does the real work. Thankfully.”

Most Pre-Seminary students complete early ministry experiences while at MLC: doing liturgy, canvassing, assisting with youth groups and Sunday schools, and working with their home pastors over break.

“I learned that sometimes you don’t see any tangible results. But that’s okay. It’s not up to me. I can do the best gospel presentation or the worst, but I

Kermit Habben NWC ’63 Raymond SD

Donald Habeck DMLC ’68 Fond du Lac WI

David Valleskey NWC ’58 Detroit

Ruth Huebner DMLC ’68 Beaver Dam WI

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About 50 MLC Knights are serving around the world through Daylight International. They teach all levels and all subjects. They work with missionaries. They make a difference— globally.

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Matthew Rydecki MLC ’98 Stevensville MI

David Ponath NWC ’58 Stillwater MN

Thomas Koepsell DMLC ’68 Dakota MN

Edward Lindemann NWC ’58 Muskego WI

A Child’s First Teacher Shawna Mehlberg ’08 (Good Shepherd—West Bend WI) has been thinking about working with children for as long as she can remember. “I love the idea of being a child’s first teacher,” she says. “I think about early childhood education (ECE) centers in the WELS, where a lot of the children aren’t members.

In addition, Shawna’s done more on her own time: worked in early childhood centers (public and private) during the summer, taught VBS and Sunday school, and completed a summer of Member Ministry Assistance at Ascension—Sarasota FL and Risen Savior—Bradenton FL.

Let’s say Shawna Mehlberg was just assigned to your congregation’s preschool.

What can you expect?

It’s such a privilege to be the first person to share the gospel with them.”

And she’s fully prepared to do that. Take a look at this record of her clinical experiences, or internships, all required elements of her MLC major.

Early Field Experiences (one week each) MLC campus Good Shepherd—West Bend WI, Preschool St. Lucas—Kewaskum WI, 7-8

Shawna doesn’t only look good on paper—she’s the real deal. She loves kids, and kids love her.

“With little kids, every day is new and exciting,” she says, “and you never know quite what’s going to happen or what they’re going to say. It’s so easy to fall in love with them. I want to be the kind of teacher who builds really strong relationships with both kids and parents. And I’m just really excited to share the gospel with the little kids and see how the Holy Spirit works in their hearts and how they grow—and to see them take that Word home to the parents and share it that way too.”

Clinical (1 semester, 1 day per week) Washington—New Ulm, 4-6, Learning Disabled

Student Teaching

(8 weeks in each WELS school, 5 weeks in public school) St. Paul—Arlington MN, 1-2 Lafayette Charter—Lafayette MN, Kindergarten MLC Early Childhood Learning Center

Margaret Oswald DMLC ’68 Clayton MO

Frederick Panning DMLC ’58 Gibbon MN

The MLC Early Childhood Learning Center is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

And for the first time, our early childhood education major is a four-year program. Also, plans to renovate the facility and expand the program have been approved and now await funding.

James Bauer DMLC ’73 Two Rivers WI

Arnold Koelpin NWC ’53 Caledonia WI

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MLC freshmen are the FIRST to embark on our new four-year Early Childhood Education major.

All MLC students receive a FIRST-time perk: free membership at Vogel Recreation Center.

The FIRST MLC logo is adopted.

We send out the FIRST issue of MLC ParentsPage, a new e-publication specifically for freshman parents. (The publication wins a national award in April.)

The FIRST MLC Alumni Association is founded.

A Year of Firsts

07 07 07 07 07 08 Aug

Sept

Oct

MLC’s FIRST fully staffed Admissions Department begins visiting high schools and elementary schools.

The cafeteria formally opens the lunch and dinner hour to the public for the FIRST time, and also stays open until midnight— with free food and beverages—for MLC students.

Nov

Dec

Jan

An MLC graduate begins teaching at Sir Harry Johnston International School in Zomba, Malawi, the FIRST time we’ve sent a teacher to this African country.

For the FIRST time, MLC passes the $2 million mark in institutional student assistance.

MLC awards its FIRST Master of Science in Education degrees.

MLC College Choir becomes the FIRST WELS choir to sing at Lutheran congregations in Mexico.

The FIRST MLC seniors complete student teaching outside the Midwest, in Washington state.

08 08 08 08 08 08 Feb

Mar

Apr

May

The FIRST annual MLC Alumni Reunion takes place.

June

We begin construction on a premier soccer venue, our FIRST with bleachers, scoreboard, fencing, restrooms, and a concessions building.

MLC breaks ground for its FIRST chapel.

The MLC Chorale, Men’s Choir, and Women’s Choir present the FIRST Hymn Festival outside New Ulm, in La Crosse WI.

MLC will offer a new major, Secondary Math Education, next school year, the FIRST four-year secondary subject matter major.

July

About 50 MLC Knights are serving around the world through Daylight International. They teach all levels and all subjects. They work with missionaries. They make a difference— globally.

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Pieter Reid NWC ’73 Clear Lake WA

Linda Schaller DMLC ’73 Jenera OH

John Chworowsky NWC ’53 Milwaukee

Michelle Siewert DMLC ’73 St Joseph MI

God’s Gifts, God’s Glory Developing God-given talents is part and parcel of ministerial training. Kent Reeder (St. Paul— Menomonie WI) and Emily Mayer (St. John— Mukwonago WI) are working hard to develop their gifts, not only in class but outside class as well.

Both Kent and Emily are heavily involved in MLC music and Forum, MLC’s drama society. They’ve acted (see Emily pictured top left), built sets, made costumes, and done publicity. Kent produced one play and is

services, and plays bass guitar in a ska (“rock meets reggae”) band (pictured bottom left).

“If you have a pastor who understands music and can work with people,” says Kent, who’s studying to be a pastor, “you can make sure that your music will edify the church in the best possible way.”

Emily, who will graduate in May 2009 with a major in Secondary Education—Spanish, sees co-curriculars

When does ministerial training consist of more than academics? At MLC, all the time. the composer and co-lyricist—with Dan Johnston (St. Paul—Beverly Hills FL)—of next year’s original musical, The Sundance Kid. Emily co-directed King Lear and led Forum as vice president last year and president this year.

“There’s no doubt that Forum changes your entire MLC perspective,” Kent says. “You have leadership roles. You learn organization skills.”

“You learn how to communicate in a caring but direct way,” Emily says. “You learn the joy of discovering and using the gifts that God gave us. And that the sacrifice of time is worth it. There’s lots of service in ministry, and it’s not necessarily during the 8-to-3:30 teacher’s day.”

“And when there’s a million things to do,” Kent adds, “you need to operate out of a mindset that says, ‘This is a privilege. We’re all Christians, and we want to put together the best show we can, and do it all for the glory of God.’” Both students have also been members of the College Choir (a curricular offering), and Kent writes music for worship, plays guitar for contemporary worship

William Wietzke NWC ’48 Montrose CO

Kurt Troge DMLC ’73 Appleton WI

as outreach tools: “The community won’t come to our campus to see what we’re doing in Western Civ. But they’ll come to a play or a presentation on global warming. While student teaching, I noticed that the big basketball tournament is a great time to show the community what it means to do everything to the glory of God.” If your congregation calls gifted MLC students like Emily or Kent, you’ll discover called workers who are graced not only with many gifts but also with hearts for gospel ministry. “First and foremost,” says Emily, “I want to share the love of Christ with my students.

And I want to develop a relationship with them, a relationship of trust and caring and respect.”

Kent adds, “I want to be a pastor who uses the gifts God has granted him to serve his people in whatever capacity they need.”

Hundreds of MLC students are involved in drama, athletics, and a wide variety of clubs, from Student Senate to Outdoor Adventure Club.

Milton Spaude NWC ’48 Newport MN

Ruth Kitzerow DMLC ’78 Woodland WI

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MLC Alumni Association

Alumni

First Annual Alumni Reunion July 25-27, 2008

Everyone is welcome, but a formal invitation will be sent to all classes (NWC, DMLC, MLC) ending in 3 or 8: 2003, 1998, 1993, 1988 . . .

Enjoy worship, mini-courses, athletic contests, tours, meals in our popular cafeteria, and plenty of time to renew old ties!

Stay overnight at a hotel, in the dorm, or at a local campground. And bring the kids along!

Extend your stay and attend the WELS National Worship Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College in nearby St. Peter beginning July 28.

Coordinate specific Saturday night events for your class.

Contact Alumni Director Steve Balza at 507.217.1731 or alumni@mlc-wels.edu.

Thank You, MLC Alumni Task Force

New Members, New Organization!

Shanna Stubalt (Apostles­—San Jose CA), Kristi Slovik (St. John—Mukwonago WI), and Stephanie Sellnow (Holy Trinity—Wyoming MI), along with all the 2008 graduates, are now members of the FIRST Martin Luther College Alumni Association (MLCAA). Under the leadership of Alumni Director Steve Balza and the Alumni Task Force, the organization has developed a constitution and by-laws. The Task Force will also be nominating and electing the initial MLCAA Board of Directors. If you’d like to get involved with orientation, Homecoming, Commencement, reunion weekend, archive preservation, or anything else alumni-related, contact Steve Balza at alumni@mlc-wels.edu or 507.217.1731.

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Andrew Monday MLC ’03 New Ulm MN

Greg Milbrath DMLC ’78 Milwaukee

• Jon Enter (’00 MLC) Pastor, Hope—West Palm Beach FL • Aaron Hartwig (’02 MLC) Principal/Teacher, St. John— Hemlock MI • Roger Klockziem (’63 DMLC) MLC Professor • Emily Sell (’11 MLC) MLC Student • Josh Roth (’02 MLC) Principal/Teacher/Staff Minister, Petra—Sauk Rapids MN • Minori Yamaki (’02 MLC) Preschool Director/Teacher, St. Matthew—Niles IL • Tim Nass (’06 MLC) Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Student • Steve Balza (’93 DMLC) MLC Director of Alumni Relations

Paul Nitz NWC ’48 Waterloo WI

LuAnn Rieger DMLC ’78 Mobridge SD

Let’s Talk Ministry

Recruitment As high school graduation approached, Megan Klatt (Holy Trinity—New Hope MN) was definitely leaning toward MLC. “Ever since fifth grade, I’ve wanted to be a teacher,” she says. But coming to our campus and walking our sidewalks cemented her decision. “I’d never met any of the faculty, and when I did, they were so caring and so welcoming,” she says. “They made the environment so awesome.”

Admissions Counselor Mark Gnewuch gave her the tour that day, but they’d met before. She was a junior when Gnewuch and veteran Admissions Counselor Sarah Zahrt visited her at West Lutheran High School. “They made it very apparent to me that at MLC, the main focus was the Lord,” she says, “and that was just awesome. They answered a ton of my questions about tuition and financial aid, AP courses, room and board. They knew everything!”

Our admissions counselors—and for the first time, we have four, plus in-house Director Ron Brutlag—wheel a lot of miles, visiting all the synod secondary schools, some Lutheran elementary schools, and also the homes of public school students.

“We tell the kids about MLC,” says Zahrt, “but we’re not trying to sell them on a school. We’re there to talk ministry—whether it’s public ministry or lay ministry—and that starts with talking about their gifts.”

In addition to personal visits, Focus on Ministry events bring hundreds of high schoolers to our campus for classes, chapel, prof talks, Bible studies, Marty’s Magical Mystery Tour (new this year!), and plenty of hours to roam, mix, and relax in the dorm.

For students like Megan, who’s an MLC freshman this year, it works. “MLC made sense,” she says. “This was the place to go. This would strengthen my faith and also help me become a teacher.”

Timothy Rimpel DMLC ’78 Stevensville MI

Paul Pappenfuss DMLC ’83 Appleton WI

Recruitment in Print: Our award-winning recruitment magazine, MLC KnightWatch, and our weekly, student-written e-publication, MLC Update—High School Edition, keep MLC in high school students’ minds. MLC ParentsPage, a first-time e-publication that helps ease the transition for parents whose children have left home for college, also won a national award this year.

Andrea Fastenau DMLC ’88 Phoenix

Karl Otto NWC ’43 Wauwatosa WI

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Here to Serve

Daylight USA

“We were vacationing, but also doing meaningful work at the same time.” That’s how Elise Wordell (Salem—Loretto MN) described her 2008 Spring Break. Along with Sarah Nottling (St. John—Fox Lake WI), Carol Putz (Redeemer—Fond du Lac WI),

other MLC students spent their Spring Break serving WELS congregations from New York to Texas to California—the experiences largely funded by WELS Kingdom Workers. These opportunities for hands-on learning allow our students to “do” ministry while still training for ministry. “What a privilege it was for our future pastors, teachers, and staff ministers to witness the joy of Christ’s resurrection in our mission congregations,” said Daylight USA coordinator, MLC Campus Pastor John Boeder.

“It was really cool being able to share my faith with people,” Elise said. “We felt like we were really

For many MLC students, Spring Break means “Spring into Action.” making a difference.”

and April Cook (Bethlehem—Menomonee Falls WI), Elise spent a week providing assistance to Redeemer—Tucson AZ through MLC’s Daylight USA program.

“They displayed such a wonderful enthusiasm for ministry,” added Pastor Jacobson, “that it had an effect on our members serving with them.”

By lending a hand at the church open house, canvassing by phone and door to door, and staffing a booth at the community’s Founders’ Day celebration (pictured), the women “helped our congregation contact about 4,000 people in our community,” said Pastor Mark Jacobson of Redeemer. “We were able to add a couple dozen families to our prospect list.”

“All in all,” Boeder said, “you couldn’t find a better way to spend Spring Break.”

Since the year 2000, more than 1300 MLC students have served congregations through Daylight USA.

These four women weren’t alone. More than 80

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Karl Schmugge NWC ’83 St Paul MN

Joel Raasch DMLC ’83 Omaha NE

Steven Gartner DMLC ’88 Milwaukee

Theodore Hartwig NWC ’43 Hartland WI

Student Firsts

Student Firsts Spanish Students Write for International Magazine El Mensajero Luterano (The Lutheran Messenger) has been serving Spanish-speaking confessional Lutherans since 1975. The May/June 2008 issue was, for the first time ever, written entirely by MLC Spanish students and Spanish Professor Paul Bases.

“We are delighted with what they wrote. It’s of the highest quality,” said the magazine editor, Gonzalo Delgadillo of El Paso TX.

A Student Teaching First

MLC student Justin Gran (Messiah— South Windsor CT) wrote “Somos Testigos de Jesucristo” and “La Creación y la Fe.” “I don’t know the Hispanic culture as well as I could,” said Justin, who’s in Pre-Seminary Studies, “but I know that they’re people just like me who need the same message.”

MLC students (l-r) Leah Dose (St. John—New Ulm MN), Jeremiah Drews (St. Stephen—Adrian MI), Alissa Alonte (St. John—Milwaukee), and Emily Mayer (St. John—Mukwonago WI) pioneered a new student teaching experience this winter. In over 100 years of our educational program, they were the first students to student teach outside the Midwest, serving at St. Matthew—Spokane WA and Holy Trinity—Des Moines WA.

MLC student Stephanie Morgan (St. John—Jefferson WI) wrote “Dios y Hombre: Una Enseñanza Importantísima.”

Pursuing a major in Secondary Education—Spanish, she said, “I definitely want to use my Spanish in my ministry.”

After one week, Dave Sauer, principal at St. Matthew, said, “I’m amazed at their professionalism already, their knowledge, their work ethic, their love for students and love for the Lord. We never expected that we’d get student teachers from Martin Luther College, so we’re just thrilled.

It’s great.”

Bases noted: “This is a great way for students to express and share their faith in their second language. Writing for the Mensajero allows them to directly apply their writing skills to ministry and reinforces why we focus so much on the value of precise writing in our Spanish courses.”

“I would like this relationship with MLC to continue,” Delgadillo said. “You are teaching the future pastors and teachers. If they start getting involved in this ministry now, it is a great blessing.”

Gordon Fuerstenau NWC ’43 Hazel SD

Dianne Reckzin DMLC ’83 Nepean, Ontario

The students enjoyed the experience as well. While noticing some differences in culture, they focused on the same truths of the Word. “It all goes back to the cross and the tomb,” said Leah Dose. “I’ve seen areas outside the Midwest now, so I think it would be cool to go there, but I’ll go wherever God wants me to be.”

Janelle Kerkow MLC ’03 Brisbane, Australia

Vicki Humann DMLC ’88 Claremont CA

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Campus Highlights

Highlights

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Freshman Early Field Experience (EFE)

Ladies’ Auxiliary Conference

During the March EFE week, freshmen like Elise Henrich (Atonement—Milwaukee) received their first real teaching experience. Presentations and hands-on practice in lesson planning, teaching, classroom management, and faculty meeting participation were some of the features of this popular week of activities. This week is the first of several experiential learning requirements that MLC Education students complete before graduation.

The MLC Ladies’ Auxiliary held their annual conference on campus last October. This year, the auxiliary funded about $8000 worth of non-budgeted items, including computers, an outdoor event tent, a large screen TV, and fitness equipment. Thank you, ladies, for your continuing financial and spiritual support!

Fourth Annual Evangelism Day

Staff Ministry Conference

John Wiederhold of WELS Kingdom Workers joined dozens of other speakers January 23 at our Evangelism Day. Students had more than 30 workshops and speeches to choose from at this annual event that directs attention to witnessing and evangelism in ministry and daily life.

Professor E. Allen Sorum gave the keynote address on this year’s special focus, Urban Ministry.

Fifty–five staff ministers came from as far away as Canada, Texas, Arizona, and North Carolina to the 2008 Staff Minister Conference on our campus in April.

Students in MLC’s staff ministry program also attended the conference, and four of them led conference devotions: Nathan Voss (St. Paul—New Ulm MN), Michael Kopitzke (Living Water—Waterford WI), Mark Knickelbein (Good Shepherd—West Allis WI), and Ryan Kummerow (St. Mark—De Pere WI, pictured).

Jon Cox NWC ’88 Wauwatosa WI

Adolf Buenger NWC ’33 Kenosha WI

Rhoda Wolle MLC ’98 Tempe AZ

Faith Scheer DMLC ’93 Lenexa KS

Drama

Drama

Carol Niemi (First—La Crosse WI) starred as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, the first of five Forum productions in 2007-2008.

Dramatic productions like these have been performed on our stages for over 100 years.

Jason Fry (St. Peter—Helenville WI) played King Windowglass, and Matt Borck (St. John—Jefferson WI) played his page, Scruffy, in a trio of December Christmas plays. Another of the trio, HIStory, was written by MLC students Greg Hein (Mt. Lebanon—Milwaukee) and Karl Schauland (St. John—Lewiston MN).

Fiona Matlock (Faith—Anchorage AK) played Goldilocks in the Children’s Theater production of The Trial of Goldilocks, which brought in over 5,000 children and another 1,000 adults this year in April.

2008-2009 Forum Season

Nick Haasch (St. Paul—Lake Mills WI) played Figaro in The Barber of Seville, a classical theater production performed in May at German Park, in conjunction with a Renaissance Faire.

BJ Witte MLC ’08 Crete IL

Mikaela Raddatz (Bethlehem—Lakeville MN) played Goody Putnam, Chris Johns (Trinity—Crete IL) played Nathan Hale, and Emily Sell (St. Mark—Richwood WI) played Tituba when Forum staged Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, The Crucible.

Timothy Zunker DMLC ’93 Athens WI

The Sundance Kid November 7-9 Frankenstein Radio Play December 5-6 Musical Comedy Murders of the 1940s February 20-22 The Three Fairy Godmothers April 24-25 Hamlet May 1-3

Roman Biesmann NWC ’33 Morton Grove IL

Christopher Treder MLC ’08 Stevensville MI

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Music

Music

The Martin Luther College Choir, directed

by Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer, sang at La Santa Cruz in Monterrey, Mexico. Our choir was the first WELS choir to sing at the confessional Lutheran churches of northern Mexico.

The College Chorale, under the direction of Professor Kurt Wittmershaus, as well as the Women’s and Men’s Choirs, presented their Hymn Fest not only in New Ulm as in past years, but also, for the first time, in La Crosse WI.

In October, the College Choir led the singing as 18 hymns from the new Christian Worship: Supplement were recorded at St. Paul—New Ulm MN. The CD was distributed to every congregation in WELS.

The February mini-tour of the Wind Symphony, directed by Professor Miles Wurster, was stymied by snow, but they still managed to play for audiences at our Michigan high schools.

The Handbell Choir, under the direction of Professor Robert Potratz, added joyful sounds to the 2007 Christmas Concert.

Handbells is one of several co-curricular music offerings.

Jacob Behnken (St. Martin—Watertown SD) once again competed in the American Guild of Organists Competition in March.

About 75% of MLC students study piano or organ at some point in their ministry training.

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Ethan Hutchinson MLC ’03 Sterling Heights MI

Daniel Lewig MLC ’08 St Petersburg FL

Jennifer Foelske MLC ’08 Menomonee Falls WI

Edgar Wiechmann DMLC ’33 Rochester MN

Athletics

Athletics

Knights’ freshman quarterback Greg Holzhueter (St. Mark—Mankato MN) broke two school records, connecting for five touchdown passes and running for another TD in the Knights’ win over Blackburn this fall.

The 2007 MLC softball team was recently rated #26 for academics in NCAA Division III, which includes about 425 colleges and universities. MLC scored higher academically than Gustavus Adolphus, St. Olaf, University of Chicago, and several hundred other schools.

Basketball Coach Jim Unke was named UMAC Coach of the Year. His Knights rallied for a nine-game winning streak after beginning the season at 4-12.

Coach Unke, who is also MLC’s Athletic Director, recently stepped down as UMAC Commissioner, a post he’d held for ten years.

Graduating senior Nate Nass (St. Paul— New Ulm MN) was named one of three Conference Scholar-Athletes this year for achieving excellence in academics, leadership, and service.

Jacob Schwartz (St. John—Waterloo WI) and Nate Nass both joined the 1000-Point Club this season, joining MLC alumni Tom Engelbrecht, Justin Walz, Dan Unke, Steve Vasold, and Jeff Loberger.

Coach Gary Dallmann was named UMAC Women’s Tennis Coach of the Year.

Dallmann, who has taught and coached at MLC for 44 years, retired this year.

Dorothy Plagge DMLC ’38 New Ulm MN

Andrea Charron MLC ’98 Omaha NE

Ervin Walz DMLC ’43 Java SD

Hernandez Daylo Jr. MLC ’98 Tomah WI

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Faculty NotesFaculty F a c u l t Notes y In Memoriam Spaude Will Be Remembered Fondly

Celebrating Faculty Anniversaries This year the MLC family thanked God for the ministries of (l-r) Lawrence Olson (25 years), John Nolte (40 years), Ronald Brutlag (40 years), Richard Ash (40 years), and John Gronholz (40 years).

Pastor Brent Brutlag, son of Ron Brutlag, preached at the anniversary service April 27, and MLC Instructor Brent Nolte, son of John Nolte, played the organ.

When Prof. em. Cyril Spaude left this world to be with his Savior on March 26, 2008, he also left us with an exemplary model of faithful, willing, steady service. Hebrew and Greek students who attended Northwestern College from 1966 through 1995 were the beneficiaries of that careful service, and many will remember the extra time he cheerfully gave and the patient manner he used and his very evident desire to help students succeed.

His work and his example of faithfulness weren’t limited to the classroom, however. After his “retirement” from Northwestern in 1995, Prof. Spaude continued to serve with his usual patience and vigor—as a pastor at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Watertown, Wisconsin; a pastor and instructor among the Apache in Arizona; a coordinator for WELS Outreach to Muslims; and an instructor for the Seminary’s Pastoral Studies Institute.

The best way to remember Prof. Spaude will be to follow his example and serve faithfully wherever and however the Lord wills.

By Vice President Jeff Schone

Most of the MLC Graduate School Faculty attended Commencement: (l-r) Dr. Carla Melendy, Dr. Scott Gostchock, Dr. David Wendler, Dr. Ron Buelow, Dr. LeDell Plath, Dr. James Grunwald, Dr. Al Spurgin, Mr. James Brandt, Dr. Cindy Whaley, Dr. Rolland Menk, and Dr. Gene Pfeifer.

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Ernst Wendland NWC ’38 Watertown WI

Anneliese Spier MLC ’03 Titusville FL

Matthew Fager MLC ’98 Janesville WI

Molly Schumann MLC ’03 Prior Lake MN

Faculty Notes

Faculty Retiring in 2008

Professors Gary Dallmann and John Micheel will retire this year. We wish them God’s richest blessings in their retirement.

Welcome, New Faculty!

Gary Dallmann has taught and coached at (D)MLC since 1964, serving at various times as a physical education professor, department chair, athletic director, and coach of men’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis, and baseball.

We’re pleased to announce new faculty members for 2008-2009: Joyce Diels (Minnesota Valley LHS): Mathematics Jonathan Roux (Divine Peace Lutheran School—Largo MD): Education David Schroeder (Wisconsin LHS): History Jeffery Wiechman (Shoreland LHS): Education

“Hey, Professor!”

By Professor Earl Heidtke

“Hey, Professor!” This is often heard on our campus. Our 700 students not only know each other well but also greet faculty and staff members in the hallways, on the grounds, and even downtown.

Sometimes there’s more than a greeting. I’m a geography professor, so I hear: Have you heard about the weather in Denver? Can we camp on the north rim of the Grand Canyon in March? I was watching Jeopardy and knew about tsunamis, and no one else did! And they show me pictures: Here’s a really neat picture of me by a cenote in the Yucatan. You should see these algae pools in the hot spring in Wyoming!

But the strangest greeting I ever got has to be this: Hey, Professor! I was in Hong Kong over break and was thinking of you. That is bizarre on so many levels. You were in Hong Kong? Over break? And you were thinking of your geography professor?

Nicole Kemnitz MLC ’98 Eldorado WI

John Micheel was called in 1964 to teach high school math and physics, and to coach track, basketball, and football.

In 1970 he began teaching college mathematics and computer courses. He has also coached basketball and done computer support.

Clint Rogas Jr. MLC ’03 Austin TX

Or maybe it’s not so bizarre. Our students are more mobile that ever. International travel—and teaching—has become the norm for many. Former students send me e-mails while teaching in Malawi, Indonesia, Thailand, and Mexico. Some continue their education online while serving in Brazil. The Lord has opened many doors for MLC students.

But there’s even more to that “Hey, Professor!” greeting.

These students are our friends, our fellow believers, and lifelong learners in class and out.

That’s the joy of serving at MLC: the ability to know nearly every student, to share knowledge, to worship together in daily chapel, to counsel together around the Word when a loved one is at death’s door. To share. To learn. To grow in faith. To serve one another here at the WELS College of Ministry.

Alan Meihak MLC ’98 Kasson MN

Lois Albrecht DMLC ’48 Bowolle SD

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The Shepherd Society

The Shepherd The Shepherd Society

To Thank Jesus, Our Good Shepherd

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.

Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”

Hebrews 13:7

Sometimes we receive letters like this: “I’m giving this gift to MLC because when I was in second grade, my teacher gave me my first Bible . . .” or “My pastor was so kind to our family when my mother died that I want to help other pastors . . .”

Each member of The Shepherd Society will be someone who has given a thank offering to Martin Luther College in appreciation of a particular pastor, teacher, or staff minister whom God has used to make a difference in his or her life.

These letters point to the reason our college exists.

They demonstrate a love for Christ the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. They also express gratitude to Jesus for sending called workers to shepherd God’s people with the Word.

We have established a way for God’s people to offer memorial gifts to MLC to thank Jesus for the gospel in our midst and to more formally acknowledge the gospel ministry of particular called workers. These gifts will be used for the training of future called workers whom Jesus will use to bring the message of salvation to more and more souls. We’re calling it The Shepherd Society.

MLC will give special recognition to the called workers so honored. They will receive a letter of gratitude from the MLC president, a personalized “Certificate of Appreciation” noting their name and the donor’s name, and a copy of the donor’s ‘Words of Gratitude.’

If you are interested in thanking a called worker and helping the college, simply send us the following form with your gift. Then, welcome to The Shepherd Society!

(If the called worker has been called to glory, we will give the certificate to a close family member.)

Your Name_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________ City______________________________ State________ Zip__________________ Phone_______________________________________ Email (opt)________________________________________________________________________ My gift of gratitude to MLC:

$_____

$50

$75

$100

$150 $_____

I’m giving this gift in honor of_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Name of WELS pastor, teacher, or staff minister) My Words of Gratitude: “I’m grateful to this called worker because_____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please remit to The Shepherd Society, Martin Luther College, New Ulm MN 56073

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(Barb, any chance we could find a stock image of red and black balloons?)

Mission Advancement

Mission Meet ’n’ Greet in California

Martin Luther College 2007 - 2008 $16.1 M Operating Budget

After filling his yard with balloons in MLC’s school colors, Paul Rosenow (Christ the Vine—Temecula CA) welcomed 80 people to his house in Temecula to meet MLC President Mark Zarling. Between a social hour and a lasagna dinner, President Zarling spoke about the global mission of our WELS College of Ministry and the gifted young students the Lord has led to our campus. Students Beckie Gilbert (St. John—Slades Corners WI) and Mike Koepke (St. Matthew—Freeland MI) then spoke about their own roads to ministry.

Paul Rosenow’s April gathering (which he called an MLC pep rally), was set against a background of live jazz and warm California breezes, but most of these events are simple kitchen-table talks about the mission and ministry of MLC. If a group of people at your congregation would like to meet our new president and hear more about MLC, please give VP Jon Scharlemann a call at 507.354.8221, and we’ll be happy to schedule a visit.

1,639,812*

1,000,000

1,160,188 Misc.

Receipts Tuition R & Board WELS Op. Subsidy Gifts Directly to MLC Amt Needed by 6/30/08*

2,900,000

9,400,000

Subheadline?

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! This year we awarded more than $2 million in institutional financial aid. Much of that comes from generous donors like you. Maybe some short excerpts from our students’ thank-you letters can best express our gratitude: . . . I feel so blessed to be here at MLC. It is truly a gift; a gift that you have given to me and others. . . . We are indeed partners in the gospel. . . .

In Christ, Hannah Bode (St. Paul—Saginaw MI) . . . God has certainly blessed MLC with a wide variety of extra activities! But you know what the best part is? Daily joining together in chapel to lift our hearts and voices to the God who has created and redeemed us all, and who still says to us, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3). . . .

Sincerely,

As of 4/30/08

*Funded from the remaining $1.6 M in reserve funds

Kerry Pamperin (St. John—Juneau WI)

. . . Just over a year ago I got married to my husband, Logan.

It’s a busy little life we have. I go to school five days a week and work as a waitress four nights as well. Logan is in school part-time a couple of days as well as working fulltime as a “repair guy” for a local hog corporation. Seeing as he is going to school for art, his job is not quite his cup of tea, but it’s an act of love which allows me to remain at MLC to finish up my last few semesters here. It is largely due to your scholarship that we are able to make this arrangement work. And it is important for it to work, because I want nothing more than to one day use what I am learning now to serve my Lord in the public ministry.

Martin Luther College is the only place I could be fully academically, emotionally, and spiritually prepared for what lies ahead of me in the ministry. . . .

Love in Christ, Leah Wilberts (St. John—Sleepy Eye MN) 33

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Helping freshmen move in

Hanging with friends in the dorm

Worshiping at chapel

Swimming at Flandrau

Scoring a TD during Powderpuff Football

Studying wherever it’s comfortable

Slip-sliding at Winter Carnival Broomball

Jamming with the band

Loving Minnesota

Exploring Chile during Spanish Immersion

Singing the Kangaroo Song at Homecoming

Working out with the team

Volunteering for Jesus Cares

Working out in the Fitness Center

Enjoying Europe with friends

Volunteering for Kids Against Hunger

Making new friends through Children’s Theater

Working hard on Arbor Day

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Who’s a principal apprentice in North Hollywood?

Who’s teaching preschool in the Dominican Republic?

Who’s teaching chemistry at Manitowoc Lutheran High?

Who’s coordinating school technology in Michigan?

Who’s teaching middle grades and coaching in Wisconsin?

Who’s playing organ in El Paso, Texas?

Who’s teaching English in Southeast Asia?

Who’s an early childhood director in Houston?

Who’s directing choir at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High?

Who’s teaching upper-grade science in Wisconsin?

Who’s teaching history at St. Croix Lutheran High?

Who’s teaching primary grades in Japan?

Who’s a tutor at Michigan Lutheran Seminary?

Who’s enrolling at Seminary?

Who’s starting an exciting new life of service to the church?

The 2008 Graduates of Martin luther College

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